Little Tree Art Studios

Little Tree Art Studios offers classes where children work with ceramics, sewing, and mixed media. Classes are kept small, with only 8–10 “Little Artists” in most art classes so each child can work on their own projects. Afterschool classes have 6–8 kids, and camps have 12–15 kids, with projects that are described as fun, creative, and not everyday craft work, and there are no cookie cutter crafts, so all work leaves the studio ready to be hung and admired.

• Ages: 5–13 years old

Little Tree Art Studios was founded in 2011 by Nichole Farnum, originally in San Francisco. Nichole has a B.A. in Early Childhood Education with a minor in Art Education from Minnesota State University and a Masters Degree in Special Education from Fordham University in New York. The program was created to give children ages 5–13 a place to explore art differently and nourish their creativity in a fun and supportive workspace, with projects that allow kids to use their own ideas while still having structure in design, tool use, and art principles. The studio keeps classes small to provide a community atmosphere where individuality is nurtured and challenged, with a focus on building self-image and cultivating self-esteem through accomplishment and self-recognition. The mission includes wanting the whole child—heart, mind, spirit, and body—to grow and be proud of their work and individuality, and to build a welcoming and supportive environment for children and their families.

The program sometimes pauses daily activities to talk about feelings that arise and to problem solve situations together. It focuses on building communication skills, self-worth, strong self-esteem, kindness for others, and good communication skills, with the belief that a safe place to share individuality makes it easier to open hearts and understand one another. Through an open and warm classroom, children’s communication skills grow and strengthen their self-worth, and with strong self-esteem, kindness, and good communication skills, a child will enter life with tools for success. Families can sign up for the newsletter to learn about upcoming classes and camps and when registration begins.

Nichole sits on the board for the Ross Valley School District’s YES Foundation, which funds music, theater, and art programs in schools. Parents describe Little Tree Art Studios as “magical” and mention workshops, classes, birthday parties, and camps that their children still talk about. Testimonials note that projects are tailored to a child’s specific age and capabilities, that children are exposed to artists such as Klimt, Warhol, and Klee, and that they learn how to give and receive feedback. Parents and children also describe the projects as creative and unique, say that finished pieces are displayed so classmates can share what they like about each other’s art, and call the experience a “huge confidence builder” that makes everyone feel special.

Last updated March 18, 2026.